Shigmo Festival in Goa: The Beginning

From floats to folk dances to even firewalking, learn about the granduer of the two week long Shigmo celebrations right from a local!

On the first day of Shigmo, each village performs the ritual bathing of their deity, dressing the idol in richly hued auspicious robes, offering prayers and food. The idol is carried on a palanquin with organised dances, and a large feast is held for the villagers.

A common attire seen during the festival is the traditional saffron turban called the fettha.

Those participating in the processions first gather in the prayer halls and practice playing the dhol tashe...

The village children also join in the fun by practicing to playing their own dhol tashe.